Oujé-Bougoumou

Oujé-Bougoumou means “the place where people gather” in Cree. Located 58 km west of Chibougamau, this Cree community settled on the shores of Lake Opémisca in 1992. The 2017 census evaluated its population at 900 inhabitants.

The history of the Cree of Oujé-Bougoumou throughout the better part of this century is a sad story of abuse and dispossession. About 70 years ago, prospectors entered their territory in search of gold and copper. At first the Cree people helped the prospectors, but the mining industry quickly took over the region. The community was forced to relocate the village 7 times in 50 years. After long negotiations, an agreement was reached in 1990 which included, among other things, the construction of a new village on land chosen by the community elders.

Today the economy of Oujé-Bougoumou revolves around mining, trapping, fishing, tourism and blueberry cultivation. Sharing lies at the heart of the community’s way of life: you are sure to receive a warm welcome!

Aanischaaukamikw / Cree Cultural Institute

Aanischaaukamikw means “heritage centre”. The centre’s mission is to capture, maintain, share, celebrate and practice Cree culture. This institute is at once a museum, an archive, a library, a place of learning and a cultural centre. It first opened its doors in 2011. With its curved wooden beams and open plan, the interior of the building references traditional Cree culture. Guided tours are available, as well as “virtual” tours using a wireless hand-held device.